January 9, 2026

Study needed to determine use of pokkali fields in Kerala, India, for round-the-year paddy-fish farming

A detailed scientific study is required to assess the potential of round-the-year integrated paddy-fish farming in the pokkali fields of Kerala, India, said Union minister of state for agriculture and farmer's welfare Ram Nath Thakur said.

Emphasising the need to enhance farmers' income while ensuring ecological and socio-economic sustainability, the minister said that the full potential of pokkali fields must be tapped in a sustainable manner.He responded to the demands from farmers seeking permission to allow fish farming in the area throughout the year instead of the existing seasonal regulations, during his visit to the fields on January 5.

Replying to the farmers, he said a comprehensive evaluation of the prevailing laws, environmental implications and long-term socio-economic impacts must precede any such move.

Currently, rice cultivation is permitted in pokkali fields from June to Oct, during the low-salinity period, while fish farming is allowed from November to April, when salinity levels are high.

The minister was of the view that understanding the feasibility and consequences of extending fish farming beyond the present season is essential before arriving at a policy decision.

"Science-based assessments are crucial to strike a balance between productivity, livelihoods of farmers and traditional fishermen, and ecosystem conservation," he said.

CMFRI director Grinson George said that if the state government permits, Ernakulam KVK is ready to undertake a detailed scientific and socio-economic study to evaluate the prospects of round-the-year integrated paddy-fish farming. He proposed a pilot experimental farming covering 50 acres of pokkali fields to generate evidence-based data to guide future policy interventions.

- The Times of India